Where is Reading FREE all summer long?

Summer Reading at New York Libraries

Summer Reading is going on now at libraries across New York. Children and teens participating in the program receive book recommendations and engage in educational activities at their local libraries. The program is a fun way to prevent summer learning loss. When kids read over the summer, they build their reading skills and will be better prepared for the upcoming school year. Visit a library near you today to sign up your child.

Summer Reading at New York Libraries is an annual program that brings children and families into local public libraries for reading and activities. In 2016, 2.1 million New York children, birth to 18 years, participated in the State Library-sponsored program.

The State Library coordinates the program and works with the 23 public library systems throughout the state providing a summer reading theme, promotional materials, a creative idea manual, and state-level support.

Congratulations to the Class of 2017

We are very proud of our 99 rising high school freshmen as they embark on the next phase of their educational journey.

100% of eighth graders are attending public and private schools, in a variety of special programs and specialized schools, as well as zoned schools.

100% passing rate for those students who took the NYS Regents Examinations in Core Algebra 1 and Living Environment.

Congratulations to their families and teachers as well.

PS/IS 229K

National Junior Honor Society P.S./I.S. 229K Chapter

"The National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) is the nation's premier organization established to recognize outstanding middle level students. More than just an honor roll, NJHS serves to honor those students who have demonstrated excellence in the areas of scholarship, service, leadership, character, and citizenship. These characteristics have been associated with membership in the organization since its beginning in 1929."

"Today, it is estimated that more than one million students participate in official Honor Society activities. National Honor Society (high school) and NJHS (middle school) chapters are found in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, many U.S. territories, and Canada. Chapter membership not only recognizes students for their accomplishments, but challenges them to develop further through active involvement in school activities and community service." (Source: NJHS webpage)

The P.S./I.S. 229K Chapter was chartered October 27, 2010. We will celebrate our seventh annual induction ceremony onWednesday, June 7, 2017, at 6:30 PM.All are welcome.

PS/IS 229K

Learn to Ride—Kids | Bike New York

Learn to Ride—Kids is a free group class for children who are ready to ditch their training wheels and ride a two-wheeler for the first time. With our safe, easy, effective method and experienced instructors, kids will learn how to balance, pedal, start, stop, and steer a bicycle. Most students get the hang of it in one session, but even if they don’t, parents will leave equipped with an easy, low-stress technique that will have their kids riding independently in no time.

This is not a school-sponsored event, but it is brought to our wider community due to the "Bike Safety" work of our fourth grade gifted and talented classes over the past few years. To find out more details and to register, click here: Bike NYC

Saturday, June 3, at the Dyker Basketball Courts in the park. Remember: pre-registration is required (using the link above).

PS/IS 229K

Families Need to Address 13 Reasons Why

Our first priority is providing a safe, supportive and inclusive learning environment for all students. As parents and educators, it is important that we be aware of what our young people are watching, reading and talking about. This helps open the door for important conversations centered on topics that interest them. It also provides an opportunity for you to offer support and guidance and be aware of what information they may be getting from the media and their peers.

Many students are watching and talking about the Netflix series 13 Reasons Why.

National PTA's TEACHER APPRECIATION WEEK

Since 1984, National PTA has designated one week in May as a special time to honor the men and women who lend their passion and skills to educating our children.

Teacher Appreciation Week is May 8-12, 2017. We can’t wait to #ThankATeacher with you!

This year’s theme is “Teachers Deliver.” And they do! Teachers deliver so much to our students—inspiration, motivation and, ultimately, their futures. From May 8-12, 2017, we would like to celebrate teachers and deliver our thanks and gratitude to them.

Teachers change the lives of millions of children every day, and their work and impact extends far beyond the boundaries of the classroom. Join us during PTA Teacher Appreciation Week to #ThankATeacher for all that they deliver to our nation’s children.

New York State Examinations for Grades 3-8: Mathematics

During the first week of May, students in grades 3 to 8 will participate in the annual New York State Mathematics Examinations.

Every spring, the Grades 3-8 English Language Arts (ELA) and Mathematics Examinations are administered to students across New York State. These annual tests are designed to measure how well students are mastering the learning standards that guide classroom instruction and help to ensure that students are on the right track to graduate from high school with the critical thinking, problem solving, and reasoning skills needed for success in college and the modern workplace.

PTA MARCH FOR VETERANS DRIVE

During most of this month, we would like to show appreciation to our neighbors at the Brooklyn Veterans Administration (VA) Hospital (800 Poly Place, across from the Dyker Beach Golf Course) through a collection of the following suggested items for those whom they serve:> Circle Word Search (large print)> Pencils/Pens> Board games> Jigsaw Puzzles> Various toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, hairbrush, comb, soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.)

Students may drop off items in our main lobby. The drive ends on March 21.

PS/IS 229K

NYC Public Schools will be Closed on Tuesday, March 14. 2017

School safety has recently been at the forefront of everyone’s minds. Schools have emergency plans to keepstudents safe from threats of violence or natural disasters—and your family should, too. Preparation is keyto ensure that you and your family members can react quickly and calmly if a serious threat arises. Take thesesteps to ensure your family is prepared for emergencies.

Families Need to Address 13 Reasons Why

Our first priority is providing a safe, supportive and inclusive learning environment for all students. As parents and educators, it is important that we be aware of what our young people are watching, reading and talking about. This helps open the door for important conversations centered on topics that interest them. It also provides an opportunity for you to offer support and guidance and be aware of what information they may be getting from the media and their peers.

Many students are watching and talking about the Netflix series 13 Reasons Why. Based on a novel by the same name, the main character leaves behind audio recordings for those individuals she feels played a role in her decision to take her life. Over the thirteen episodes, the series addresses sexual assault, bullying, suicide, and the failure of adults to respond to students’ concerns.

When an incident, local or national event, or TV show is in the media and spurs conversation for our young learners, it is important that we be available to fill in the informational blanks. In doing so we can provide support and a variety of resources should they or someone they know ever face the pressures and/or impact of experiences such as those depicted in this show. As family members and educators we can and should partner to participate in these conversations in order to speak thoughtfully and sensitively with students about their views of and reactions to this fictional series.

If your child is talking about this series or you are aware that they are watching it, ask them what they are thinking about it. Remind them that you are there for them and that there are school professionals always available to answer questions, to listen and to connect them with people and places to assist them with anything that challenges them.

Below are a few links that provide information that may assist you in having a conversation about the series with your child. Also, please contact us at school to address any concerns that you may have about your child, and to assist in answering any questions they might have or resources they may need. Please call our school counselor or social worker at 718-236-5447 x. 4.

NYCDOE May 2, 2017

NYC DOE DISCIPLINE CODEApril 2017 Edition

Ensuring that your child learns in safe, supportive, and inclusive schools is our top priority. To improve school culture and climate, we use preventive approaches that address the real causes of a conflict. We believe it is important to reinforce positive behaviors through teachable moments. At the same time, we hold students accountable for their actions. We want them to reflect on their behavior and repair any harm done.

To Your Health

Keep your kids safe. Get their flu shots every year. Find out more from the New York State Department of Health, at A Parent Guide in Flu Season.

SCHOOL-BASED POLICY OF P.S. 229K (20K229) FOR USE OF CELL PHONES, COMPUTING DEVICES, AND PORTABLE MUSIC AND ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEMS ON SCHOOL PROPERTY

Students are permitted to bring the following electronic items to school: 1) cell phones; 2) laptops, tablets, iPads and other similar computing devices; and 3) portable music and entertainment systems, such as iPods, MP3 players, PSP, and Nintendo DS.

A. The use of cell phones, computing devices and portable music and entertainment systems at school is subject to the conditions below.

Cell phones and portable music and entertainment systems may not be turned on or used during the administration of any school quiz, test or examination.

Computing devices may not be turned on or used during the administration of any school quiz, test or examination, except where such use has been explicitly authorized by the school or is contained in an Individualized Education Program or Section 504 Accommodation Plan.

Cell phones, computing devices, and portable music and entertainment systems may not be turned on or used during school fire drills or other emergency preparedness exercises.

Cell phones, computing devices, and portable music and entertainment systems may not be used in locker rooms or bathrooms.

Students who use cell phones, computing devices, and/or portable music and entertainment systems in violation of any provision of the DOE’s Discipline Code, the school’s policy, Chancellor’s regulation A-413, and/or the DOE’s Internet Acceptable Use and Safety Policy (“IAUSP”) will be subject to discipline in accordance with the guidance interventions and disciplinary responses set forth in the Discipline Code.

B. Cell phones may be used as set forth below.

During the school day:

Cell phones may not be turned on or used while on school property. At all times, cell phones are to be stored in a zipped compartment of the student’s book bag, except for instructional and educational purposes with the explicit approval of the teacher.

During after-school, school-sponsored programs or activities:

Cell phones may not be turned on or used while on school property. At all times, cell phones are to be stored in a zipped compartment of the student’s book bag, except for instructional and educational purposes with the explicit approval of the teacher.

C. Computing devices may be used as set forth below.

During the school day:

Computing systems may be turned on and used only during instructional time for instructional and educational purposes with the explicit approval of the teacher. At all other times, all computing devices are to be stored in a zipped compartment of the student’s book bag and placed in the off position.

During after-school, school-sponsored programs or activities:

Computing systems may be turned on and used only during instructional time for instructional and educational purposes with the explicit approval of the teacher. At all other times, all computing devices are to be stored in a zipped compartment of the student’s book bag and placed in the off position.

D. Portable music and entertainment systems may be used as set forth below.

During the school day:

Portable music devices and entertainment systems may not be turned on or used while on school property, except for instructional and educational purposes with the explicit approval of the teacher. At all times, all electronic devices are to be stored in a zipped compartment of the student’s book bag in the off position.

During after-school, school-sponsored activities:

Portable music devices and entertainment systems may not be turned on or used while on school property, except for instructional and educational purposes with the explicit approval of the teacher. At all times, all electronic devices are to be stored in a zipped compartment of the student’s book bag in the off position.

E. Student Discipline, including Confiscation and return of electronic items

Students who use any type of electronic item in violation of the policies of the New York City Department of Education, including those specified in this document, may have the device confiscated and will be subject to discipline in accordance with the guidance interventions and disciplinary responses set forth in the Citywide Behavioral Expectations to Support Student Learning.

In other instances, the following disciplinary measures are in effect:

A warning will be given.

Confiscation of the item, parent/guardian notification of the confiscation, and the return of the item to the student at end of school day.

Confiscation of the item and its return following a conference with the parent/guardian.

A Message from the NYC DOE

March 21, 2017

We are writing with an update to our letter from January 30, 2017, to reaffirm our commitment to protecting the right of every student in New York City to attend public school, regardless of immigration status. Your child is our top priority, and we will do everything in our power to protect your child and ensure that all students get a high quality education.

A MESSAGE FROM THE NYC DOE

January 30, 2017

The New York City Department of Education (DOE) and the Mayor’s Office are committed to protecting the right of every student in New York City to attend public school, regardless of immigration status. The United States Supreme Court has also recognized the importance of public education for all students, including undocumented students. Your child is our top priority, and we will do everything in our power to protect that right and ensure all students get a quality education.

We take pride in our diversity. Immigrant parents, students, principals, teachers and other staff are a part of what makes our schools, and New York City, the amazing, strong, vibrant places they are. Whether you or your family arrived 100 years or 100 days ago —you are New Yorkers— and we stand with you.

To help ensure that all children continue to learn in safe, nurturing environments, we are providing the following direction to the staff members at our schools:

As in the past, DOE staff will not ask about or keep a record of the immigration status of a student or family member. If you do share confidential information, including immigration status, about yourself or your family, it will be protected under the City’s confidentiality policy and the Chancellor’s Regulations.

DOE staff will not grant unlimited access to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Like all other law enforcement agencies, ICE is not permitted access to schools without proper legal authority. If ICE officers go to a school for immigration enforcement purposes, they will be referred to the principal who will take appropriate action.

DOE staff will not release student information unless required to by law.

Anyone in our schools seeking immigration legal services will be referred to ActionNYC. ActionNYC is a program that offers free, safe immigration legal help from trusted community organizations, in your communities and in your language.

School staff will ensure all students are in safe and supportive learning environments. The DOE’s policy is to maintain safe and inclusive schools that are free from harassment, bullying, and discrimination on account of actual or perceived race, color, religion, age, creed, ethnicity, national origin, alienage, citizenship status, disability, sexual orientation, gender (sex), or weight. Any incidents or concerns should be immediately reported to school staff, who will investigate and take swift action.

Thank you for entrusting your child’s education to us. Nothing is more important than putting our 1.1 million students on the path to success.

A MESSAGE FROM THE NYC DOE

January 23, 2017

This is a follow up to my December 19 letter outlining the additional measures the New York City Department of Education (DOE) is taking to ensure that the water in New York City schools is safe for students and staff.

On December 17, 2016, every potential source of water for drinking or preparing food at P.S. 229 - Brooklyn (P.S. 229 Dyker, 1400 Benson Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11228) was tested for lead. The laboratory results showed elevated levels of lead in 1 of the 157 samples of water taken and tested from outlets in the building. A more detailed letter related to the testing for leadat P.S. 229 - Brooklyn is attached and complete test results are posted on the DOE website.

In any building where lead test results show even one water outlet above the action level of 15 parts per billion, the DOE will implement its standard response protocol, under which it removes any such outlet from service, flushes all or part of the system to eliminate water sitting in pipes overnight, replaces equipment and re-tests after the equipment is replaced.

Each affected fixture at P.S. 229 - Brooklyn will remain out of service until it is remediated and future testing shows that the water does not have an elevated level of lead. The custodial staff will also continue to flush the P.S. 229 - Brooklyn water systems on Monday mornings before school starts in order to eliminate water that has been stagnant in pipes over the weekend and to ensure safe drinking water is available for students and staff.

A Message from the NYC DOE

December 19, 2016

As a follow up to our communications earlier this year, I would like to provide you an update on the ongoing measures at the NYC Department of Education (DOE) to ensure that the water in our schools is safe for students and staff.

First and foremost, New York City water is safe and families and staff should rest assured that our drinking water is of the highest quality in the world. The water in every NYC public school was tested for lead in 2016 and the vast majority of test results were not elevated. Those outlets that exceeded the action level for lead were immediately taken out of service, remediated and not placed back into service until the outlet re-tested below the action level. This work was done in close partnership with City and State agencies, using a protocol developed in partnership with the Environmental Protection Agency.

This fall, the State issued new regulations on testing water for lead in schools. To ensure that we continue to exceed requirements, the DOE, in partnership with the State Department of Health and the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, has updated its protocol for lead testing of drinking water in school buildings. Additionally, we are updating the letters we send to families and school staff to include more detail on our rigorous testing process and results so all communities have detailed information. Providing you with comprehensive information that is easily accessible on the DOE website is key to our partnership with you.

Out of an abundance of caution and because ensuring the safety of our students and staff is our top priority, the DOE will retest all school buildings based on the new protocol this winter. In any building where test results show even one water outlet above the action level, the DOE will implement its standard response protocol, under which we remove anysuch outlet from service, flush all or part of the system to eliminate water sitting in pipes overnight, replaces equipment and re-tests after the equipment is replaced.

Please visit http://schools.nyc.gov/AboutUs/schools/watersafety.htm to learn more about the robust protocol we use to ensure the safety of drinking water in each and every school, as well as to look up water test results for your child’s school. We thank you for your partnership in delivering a high-quality education to all school children across the City.

A Message from the NYC DOE

October 6, 2016

Nothing is more important than the safety of students and staff. Over the last few days, several New York City schools have received threats via social media. The NYPD was immediately notified and determined the threats were not credible.

We are monitoring the situation and will continue working closely with the NYPD to ensure the safety and security of all school buildings. If any threats have been made directly to you or your student, please report them to the NYPD.

A Message from the NYC DOE

June 28, 2016

The New York City Department of Education (DOE) is taking a number of proactive, ongoing measures to ensure that the water in New York City schools is safe for students and staff.

New York City’s water is of the highest quality, meeting or exceeding all federal and State standards. The City regulates its own watershed that surrounds — and protects — our reservoirs, and the water is tested over 500,000 times each year at various points throughout the system. Beyond these extensive measures, the DOE works with City agencies, including the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) and the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), to ensure our students have access to safe drinking water in schools.

DEP has invested more than $10 billion over the last decade to maintain and improve our water supply infrastructure. Between 2008 and 2010, DEP worked with DOE and other city agencies to identify and remove lead service lines to schools and other municipal buildings.

Please be reassured that the water in our school is safe to drink. While there is no cause for concern about the water at P.S. 229K, we understand that you take your child’s safety seriously and we share that commitment to safety with you.